Why colds and flu increase in winter
In winter, families spend more time indoors together, often in one warm room with the windows closed. Cold and flu viruses spread easily in these conditions, through coughs, sneezes and hands that touch the face. Most colds get better by themselves in about a week. Flu (influenza) can be more serious, especially for young children, older people, pregnant women and people with long-term conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or lung disease.
How to protect your family
- Wash hands often with soap and water, especially before eating and after coughing or blowing your nose.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
- Open a window or door for a few minutes every day to let fresh air into the room, even when it is cold.
- Keep a sick person's cup, plate and towel separate, and keep them away from newborn babies where possible.
- Eat warm, nourishing food, drink enough fluids and get enough sleep.
- Ask at your health centre whether a flu vaccine is available, especially for people at higher risk.
Caring for someone with a cold or flu
Rest, warm drinks, soups and plenty of fluids help the body recover. Keep breastfeeding a baby who is unwell. Antibiotics do not work against cold and flu viruses, so do not take them unless a doctor has prescribed them for another reason. Never give children medicine that is meant for adults.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if the fever lasts more than three days, if symptoms get worse after starting to improve, or if the sick person has a long-term illness or is pregnant. Go to the nearest hospital immediately if someone has difficulty breathing, fast breathing or a chest that pulls in when breathing (in children), blue lips, cannot drink or breastfeed, is very sleepy or difficult to wake, or has a convulsion.
If you are worried about yourself or your child, book a consultation with a doctor in the app or visit a clinic.